Bluewater Dam
Key Takeaway
Bluewater Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1927 and is 99 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 75 ft (taller than 84.7% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 655 ft |
| Dam Type | Arch |
| Max Storage | 44.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 38.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,730 acres |
| Drainage Area | 207 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3,260 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1927 (99 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1986 |
| NID ID | NM00239 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
BLUEWATER-TOLTEC IRRIGATION DISTRICT
Local Government
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High Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bluewater Dam?
Bluewater Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bluewater Dam?
Bluewater Dam is owned by BLUEWATER-TOLTEC IRRIGATION DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bluewater Dam built?
Bluewater Dam was completed in 1927, making it 99 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Bluewater Dam?
Bluewater Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bluewater Dam?
Bluewater Dam has a dam height of 75 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Bluewater Dam last inspected?
Bluewater Dam was last inspected on November 5, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.